A TRIAL of reservation-only seating on V/Line trains travelling along the Albury line will continue over summer, and will extend to seven days a week over the busy holiday period.

Beginning earlier this week and running through to the end of February, all V/Line services on the Albury line will be fully reserved, in a move expected to provide more certainty for passengers travelling throughout the summer and upcoming school holidays.

The trial was first introduced on weekends and school holidays in September after more than 70 per cent of passengers surveyed by V/Line staff supported a move to reservation-only seating on busy services.

The move followed a number of reported overcrowding issues in the wake of the introduction of the regional fare cap earlier this year, which saw those without a reserved seat forced to stand or sit on the floor for all or part of their journey in busy unreserved carriages.

As of Monday, weekday services are now also subjected to reservation-only seating.

An additional Saturday service to Melbourne and a return Sunday service to Albury will also be introduced to run throughout the summer months.

Minister for Public and Active Transport, Gabrielle Williams, said more than 250,000 trips had been taken on the Albury line since the introduction of the regional fare cap earlier this year.

Further consultation is expected to continue over the coming months before a decision is reached over whether reservation-only seating will be implemented permanently.

“The regional fare cap continues to be extremely popular on the Albury line and by extending this reservation-only seating trial, we’re giving passengers more certainty about seating over the summer period,” Ms Williams said.

“With fairer fares, extra services and more booking certainty, we’re working hard to support Albury line passengers and their travel needs, ensuring they can attend major events, visit family and friends or explore the best of what Victoria has to offer this holiday season.”

Passengers who require special assistance should call 1800 800 007 between 6am and midnight to discuss their needs before they travel.